Music and Balloon Fest planned for 4th of July

NORWICH  For years, the Fourth of July meant flea markets, live music, crafts, food and  of course  fireworks at the Chenango County Fairgrounds. This summer, thanks to a dedicated group of local residents, that tradition will return with the first-ever Fourth of July Music and Balloon Fest.

The newly formed festival  organized by local music fans Debbie Bowers and Rick Stark  will feature live musical performances throughout the day, kicking off at 11 a.m. July 4. Local and regional acts Honeystruck, Jason Wicks, Sundown, The Roundhouse Rockers and the Rochester-based Ruby Shooz have all been tapped for the days entertainment, with more groups  and solo acts  to be announced in the coming months. Add to that a flea market, hot-air balloons, craft and food vendors, hot dog eating contest, chicken barbecue, cruise-in and fireworks, and you have a recipe for success, said Bowers.